The Gift of Kindness: A Reminder for Business Owners, Parents, and Networkers
In the heart of the festive season, amidst the flurry of tasks and to-dos, there’s a quiet reminder to pause and reflect on kindness—not just the kindness we extend to others, but the kind we give to ourselves.
Yesterday, something magical happened in my home that reminded me of this. Our Christmas elves, who usually delight my children with their nightly mischief, left a note explaining they couldn’t move. Their magic was low because there wasn’t enough kindness in the house. They asked my children to fill a basket with toys they no longer used, so the elves could take them to children in need of some Christmas cheer.
What unfolded was exactly what I wanted to happen. My children eagerly filled the basket, their small acts of giving restoring the magic in our home. Their joy was a reminder of how powerful kindness can be—how it lights up not just others, but also ourselves.
Later that day, I attended a spiritual gathering where I drew an angel card. The word that appeared? Kindness. The universe seemed to be telling me something, honestly you couldn't make it up! Throughout the afternoon, I was told—gently, yet firmly—that I needed to be kind to myself. Actually I was told by several strangers, and whether you believe in a bit of woo or not, I cannot explain the messages but many came with the message of 'Be kind to myself' and 'stop doing everything for everyone and start doing it for me' 2024 has been an emotional year, full of grief, loss and uncertainty and I've most certainly just been surviving at times- emotionally, mentally, just everything.
The Overlooked Kindness: Ourselves
As a business owner, parent, and someone who is constantly connecting with others, I often forget to show myself the same kindness I give so freely to others. Like many of us, I’ve been guilty of putting myself last, prioritising everyone else’s needs before my own. It’s easy to do, isn’t it? We tell ourselves we’re being selfless, but in truth, it dims our inner light.
You’ve likely heard the saying about putting on your own oxygen mask first in an emergency. This year, I didn’t. I fought fiercely for everyone else, but I forgot to fight for myself. The result? I felt depleted, less vibrant, less “me.”
And yet, this is what kindness asks of us—not just to show up for others, but to show up for ourselves.
A Call to Action: Invite Kindness In
As the year draws to a close, let’s all take a moment to invite more kindness into our lives. Here’s how:
Be kind to others. Whether it’s a smile to a stranger, a kind word to a colleague, or donating to those in need, small acts of kindness ripple outward, creating a wave of goodwill.
Be kind to yourself. Rest when you need it. Say no when your plate is too full. Speak to yourself with the same compassion you’d offer a friend.
Teach kindness. Whether you’re a parent, mentor, or team leader, model the importance of kindness. Show that it’s not a weakness, but a strength that connects and uplifts us all.
This festive season, let’s fill our metaphorical baskets with kindness—toward others and toward ourselves. Light your own inner candle and watch as it illuminates the world around you.
Remember: You matter too. Your light is needed, and it shines brightest when fueled by love, rest, and yes—kindness.
May this season bring you peace, warmth, and a renewed commitment to treating yourself as gently as you treat others.
